The children at William J. Johnston Middle School in Colchester had a simple, yet heartfelt, message to veterans on Wednesday: Thank you.

The entire student body, faculty and staff assembled in the school's gym to pay tribute to local veterans, some of whom attended the half-hour ceremony, which featured the reading of names of servicemen and women related to the students.

"The names were of veterans connected to this school," Principal Chris Bennett told the children. "They are all related to you."

Slide shows set to patriotic songs showed the faces of service members past and present, as the students watched in respectful silence. Bennett asked the students to remember the school's theme this year — "Heroes" — and to think about what makes a true hero.

One such person was the school's namesake, William J. Johnston, who served in World War II and received a Purple Heart and the Medal of Honor.

"Always be humbly grateful to those brave patriots," Bennett said.

Several of the students played important roles in the proceedings. Members of the choir sang "The Star-Spangled Banner," and the band played a medley of patriotic tunes. Two students also played "Echo Taps" on trumpets.

Members of the student council carried the flags of each of the branches of the armed forces in the opening and closing processions.

"It feels amazing to represent our school and our town's veterans, who have helped us to be free," Will Pipicelli, 13, said. He carried one of the flags.

Veterans present, including Walter Tallman, appreciated the gesture from the school.

"We're glad they do it and recognize the veterans," he said.

Bennett also urged the students to follow the example of the soldiers, and think about service to their school or community.

"Find a place where you can make a difference, and maybe even become someone's hero," he said.